Little update…added a new form of workout #ReformerPilates,” said Debina Bonnerjee
Debina Bonnerjee is making strides in her fitness journey, expanding her workout routine beyond cardio and bodyweight training. The dedicated mother of two recently shared an Instagram update, revealing her latest fitness venture: “#ReformerPilates” has been added to her regimen. This addition showcases her commitment to holistic wellness.
In the realm of Pilates, exercises are typically divided into two categories: mat-based and reformer Pilates. Debina’s exploration of reformer Pilates underlines her dedication to diversified and effective fitness practices.
Reformer Pilates stands as a heightened and dynamic iteration of traditional mat-based Pilates. Distinguished by its utilization of a specialized Pilates reformer machine, this variant introduces an added layer of intensity through the incorporation of springs that provide resistance to each exercise. It’s worth noting that the roots of Pilates reformer trace back to the 1920s within the pioneering Pilates studio envisioned by Joseph Pilates himself.
Describing the mechanics of the reformer Pilates, fitness expert Garima Goyal explains that this traditional apparatus encompasses several components. It includes a bed adorned with springs, a movable carriage, ropes, and pulleys. The foundation comprises a frame resembling a bed, upon which lies a flat platform termed the carriage. The carriage smoothly moves back and forth via attached wheels. These wheels are linked to springs, which are in turn connected to the carriage. Notably, the spring end features an adjustable foot bar for hand and feet placement. Additionally, the reformer is equipped with extended straps affixed with handles, situated at the upper end of the frame.
The advantages of reformer Pilates encompass various aspects:
1. Enhanced Variety: Unlike mat-based Pilates, the reformer method boasts a wider range of exercises, which contributes to its superiority, explains Garima Goyal.
2. Muscle Building and Toning: The exercises incorporated in reformer Pilates encompass expansive muscle movements, leading to effective muscle building and toning. This process also enhances joint stability, providing crucial support, Garima highlights.
3. Engagement of Entire Body: While mat-based Pilates primarily focuses on the core, reformer Pilates engages the entire body, including peripheral muscles in the arms and legs, ensuring comprehensive exercise.
4. Core Stabilization: The activities integrated into reformer Pilates significantly contribute to core stability, rendering them indispensable for athletes and anyone aiming to bolster their core strength.
5. Beneficial for Leg Injuries: Individuals with leg or knee injuries often face challenges when it comes to exercising vertically and bearing weight on the legs. In contrast, reformer Pilates exercises on a horizontal plane strengthen leg muscles while facilitating faster recovery through controlled activity with lighter resistance compared to body movement, as Garima explains.
Additionally, reformer Pilates offers the following benefits:
- Diverse Range of Exercises: Reformer Pilates provides a versatile array of exercises that can be performed in various positions such as lying down, sitting, standing, and even upside down. These exercises can involve manipulating straps, footbars, shoulder blocks, and other equipment, allowing for a wide range of movements and variations.
- Strength Enhancement: The utilization of springs in reformer Pilates introduces resistance and intensity to the exercises, effectively contributing to strength development. While the resistance may not equate to traditional gym weights, practitioners often experience a heightened sense of inner strength after engaging in reformer Pilates, as noted by Garima Goyal.
- Improved Flexibility: The exercises encompass dynamic stretching, which not only promotes muscular strength but also enhances flexibility and joint mobility. This combination of strength and flexibility work is a key feature of reformer Pilates, making it a comprehensive approach to fitness.
